Harvesting aloe vera is easy and rewarding, especially if you're looking to use its soothing gel for skincare or natural remedies. To begin, choose a healthy, mature plant—typically one that's at least a year old. Look for thick, firm leaves near the outer base of the plant, as these are the most nutrient-rich and ready for harvest.

Using a sharp, clean knife or scissors, cut the leaf close to the base of the plant, avoiding the central cluster to allow continued growth. After harvesting, stand the leaf upright for a few minutes to let the yellowish latex (aloin) drain out; this substance can be irritating to the skin and should be discarded. Once drained, rinse the leaf thoroughly.

To extract the gel, lay the leaf flat, slice off the spiny edges, and carefully remove the top layer of skin. Scoop out the clear gel inside with a spoon. Use the gel immediately or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

By harvesting aloe vera properly, you ensure both the health of your plant and the quality of the gel you collect for personal use.